What are common fishing hazards?

Drowning is the leading cause of death in recreational boating accidents. In 2019, there were 630 boating fatalities in the United States, and of those, 79% were drownings.

There are a number of factors that can contribute to drowning, including:

- Capsizing: A boat can capsize if it is overloaded, improperly loaded, or hit by a large wave.

- Falling overboard: This can happen if you slip on a wet deck, are not wearing a life jacket, or are hit by a wave.

- Hypothermia: This can occur if you fall into cold water and your body loses heat too quickly.

2. Boating accidents

Boating accidents can range from minor fender-benders to major collisions that result in injuries or fatalities. Some of the most common causes of boating accidents include:

- Operator error: This includes things like speeding, driving while intoxicated, and not paying attention to the water.

- Mechanical failure: This can include things like engine failure, steering failure, and electrical failure.

- Weather conditions: Bad weather, such as high winds, waves, and fog, can make boating dangerous.

3. Fish hooks and lures

Fish hooks and lures can be sharp and cause serious injuries if they are not handled properly. Some of the most common injuries include:

- Cuts and punctures: These can be caused by fish hooks that are caught in skin or clothing.

- Eye injuries: These can be caused by fish hooks that are accidentally flicked into the eye.

- Lead poisoning: This can occur if you swallow a fish hook that is made of lead.

4. Marine life

There are a number of marine animals that can be dangerous to fishermen, including:

- Sharks: Sharks are predators that can attack humans if they feel threatened.

- Barracudas: Barracudas are also predators that can attack humans if they are startled or provoked.

- Stingrays: Stingrays have a sharp barb on their tail that can inflict a painful sting.

- Jellyfish: Jellyfish have tentacles that can deliver a painful sting.

5. Sun exposure

Spending long hours in the sun can cause sunburn, skin cancer, and other health problems. It is important to protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

6. Dehydration

It is important to drink plenty of fluids when you are fishing, especially in hot weather. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and other health problems.

7. Hypothermia

Hypothermia can occur if you fall into cold water and your body loses heat too quickly. Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, confusion, and loss of consciousness. If you think someone is experiencing hypothermia, call 911 immediately.

8. Heat stroke

Heat stroke can occur if you are exposed to high temperatures for too long. Symptoms of heat stroke include fever, headache, and dizziness. If you think someone is experiencing heat stroke, call 911 immediately.

9. Carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur if you are exposed to carbon monoxide fumes from a boat's engine. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, nausea, and dizziness. If you think someone is experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning, call 911 immediately.